About Us

THE FOUNDERS OF CWC

Our Story

We’re Audre Dabney and Nile Mpela, both sophomore finance majors at Howard University, proudly representing our hometowns of Washington, D.C., and Brooklyn, NY. Although we come from different cities, our journeys led us to cross paths on Howard’s campus, where we quickly realized we shared more than just a major; we also shared a purpose. From an early age, we found ourselves drawn to community service and youth mentorship, dedicating our time to working with young people in underserved neighborhoods. We saw the immense potential within the youth we mentored and how powerful it could be when that potential was nurtured in the right environment.

That shared passion and purpose led us to co-found Creative Wealth Collective, rooted in the belief that every young person deserves the space and support to explore who they are beyond the limitations society often places on them. 

Our vision goes far beyond the surface. We want to reach the youth in ways they haven’t been reached before, and especially young Black men who are so often funneled into one-dimensional paths. In our mentorship work, we noticed a common thread: the only leadership roles many Black boys were offered came through sports. While we deeply respect the value of athletics, we also recognize the need for broader horizons. Through Creative Wealth Collective, we’re here to show them that it’s okay to be different and that creativity is power.

This isn’t just about changing individual lives, but it’s rather about shifting the culture. We’re building a community where young people feel seen, heard, and supported. A community where success looks like authenticity, resilience, and the freedom to dream beyond the box. Creative Wealth Collective is our way of making sure no one feels like they have to shrink themselves to fit the mold, as we’re here to help them break it.

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